Solitaire Engagement Rings: Your Complete Guide

Solitaire Engagement Rings: Your Complete Guide

Time-honored and elegant, solitaire engagement rings are easily one of the most popular ring settings available. While simple, these rings are always on trend, affordable, and look great on every finger.

3 Solitaire Engagement Rings

Loved for their crisp design, engagement rings with solitaire settings feature a single stone placed on the metal band. These rings highlight the diamond like no other, no matter its shape.

As the most iconic and popular ring style, the minimal design of solitaire rings has come to symbolize life’s most precious moments, and for good reasons. From proposals to special anniversaries, the sophistication of its sleek band, whether traditional or contemporary, it’s no wonder these have remained a firm favorite over the years.  

We’ve rounded up some of our most popular solitaire engagement rings to celebrate these classic beauties, as well as help you learn all there is to know about the forever timeless solitaire setting.

What Is A Solitaire Engagement Ring?

The word “solitaire” comes from the Latin word “Solus,” which means alone or sole. 

Therefore, solitaire engagement rings feature a single diamond in the center. The classic engagement ring has been around for decades and often makes for a true statement piece. 

Typically, there are no other diamonds or gemstones on the ring, and the band is plain without pavé diamonds. But, do not let the simplicity of this style fool you. In fact, there is plenty of room to customize it to create the ring of your dreams.

18K Yellow Gold 1.5mm Comfort Fit Engagement Ring
14K Yellow Gold Rope Solitaire Engagement Ring

Why Choose A Solitaire Engagement Ring?

For those with a simple yet refined sense of style, a solitaire setting is a perfect choice. With its polished design and uncomplicated beauty, it is the ideal complement to any outfit and occasion.

As there are no additional stones or elaborate details to distract from the center stone. Meaning, that there’s more diamond to see and more light to pass through, adding to the diamond’s brilliance. In other words, the design allows the diamond to take center stage! 

Solitaire engagement rings are also extremely versatile, which allows the wearer to pair them beautifully with a variety of other pieces such as gemstone jewelry or wedding rings. 

Other elements such as metal color can give a solitaire ring a distinct look, tailor-made to the preference of each wearer. For example, rose gold solitaire engagement rings give off a blended vintage and modern appearance. While the rosey, warm hue looks striking against many skin tones. 
These are just a handful of the many reasons why you should choose a solitaire engagement ring. Despite changing fashion trends, you can be sure that your ring will remain stylish and sophisticated.

Solitaire Engagement Rings For Every Diamond Shape

Solitaire settings are designed to fit a selection of diamonds in various shapes and sizes. This is because of their classic design and perfect prongs. Regardless of the diamond’s shape or size, it will remain well secured so you won’t have to worry about it falling out.

The timeless elegance of solitaire rings also means they can accommodate various diamond shapes and sizes. Round diamonds are the traditional choice for solitaire engagement rings, but fancy shaped diamonds such as oval, pear, cushion, marquise, and emerald cut are some of the most popular options. 

So, which one do you think you’ll pick?

What To Look For In A Solitaire Engagement Ring

Finding the perfect solitaire engagement ring isn’t just about finding something you love to stare at. But what exactly is the most important part of a solitaire engagement ring?

Here are a number of things to consider before making a big purchase. 

As we mentioned before, the design is basic and all eyes are on the diamond, it is best to try to focus on making sure that the diamond is not only magnificent but is also of great quality. Experts highly recommend that the diamond you choose is certified and details the nitty-gritty of your diamond. 

Another question on many customers’ minds is, “what is the best stone cut for this type of ring?”Due to the beauty of a solitaire ring, there is actually no optimal diamond cut, as its simplicity makes it suitable for practically any diamond shape.

Additionally, it’s good to note that solitaire rings can be customized with a variety of prong settings and designs. The most common include comfort fit, knife edge, classic split shank, bezel set, cathedral, and four and six-prong solitaire settings.

Pros and Cons of a Solitaire Setting

There are plenty of good things to say about solitaire engagement rings, which is one this ring setting is so popular. It will never feel trendy or out of style, and it’s easy to pass down. However, there are also just a few disadvantages to selecting a solitaire engagement ring.

Pros and Cons of a Solitaire engagement rings

Lab Created Diamond Solitaire Ring Price

If your goal is to shop for an affordable engagement ring, then solitaire is definitely your best option. 

But, if you’re looking for guaranteed affordability, you should definitely consider a lab created diamond. Lab created diamonds are 100% real diamonds, and just like earth created diamonds, they come with their own GIA certificate. 

Lab grown diamonds have the exact same optical, physical, and chemical properties as their mined counterparts. The only significant difference is their origin. One comes from a natural and uncontrolled environment, while the other is physically created in a controlled laboratory. In fact, if you examined both types of diamonds under a professional jeweler’s loupe or on a molecular level, you would not see any differences.

There is a fast-growing trend in the diamond industry for buyers to purchase these diamonds. Why you may ask? Well, there are several reasons why lab created diamonds are so beneficial:

  • Environmentally friendly & ethically sourced 
  • At 30% less than an earth created diamond of similar size, color, and clarity, there is greater affordability
  • Available in various diamond shapes and sizes
  • Known origin of every diamond 
  • Greater purity and improved quality

This ring style offers several creative opportunities, which is perfect for those also looking to design their dream engagement ring. In fact, at JamesAllen.com, we allow you to jump into the designer’s seat and fully customize a truly unique engagement ring with The Ring Studio. You can choose from hundreds of different designs and a selection of beautiful lab created diamonds. By creating your own ring within your budget, you can create exactly what you want.

Price estimation for solitaire engagement rings

Solitaire Engagement Rings With A Wedding Band

The truth is that solitaire engagement rings can look great with just about any wedding ring. 

In general, it’s best to choose a wedding band that matches the metal and style of your fiancé-to-be’s engagement ring. However, there are no set rules to follow. If you also feel the urge to spice things up from time to time with your solitaire ring, one of the things to do is add stackable rings. Stacking multiple bands on both the top and the bottom of your engagement ring is a stunning way to add the perfect amount of sparkle and dimension you may be looking for. 
Our guide on How To Wear A Wedding Ring Set can also give you the answers you need as it goes into more detail on what you should look for when choosing a wedding band to match a solitaire engagement ring.

FAQs

  1. What is the difference between a solitaire and a diamond?

Solitaire and diamond are often used interchangeably by jewelers. However, the two actually have different meanings. Solitaire refers to the gemstone setting, e.g., a single stone mounted on a piece of jewelry, while a diamond is a type of gemstone.

  1. Does an engagement ring have to be a solitaire? 

No. There are a variety of engagement ring styles to choose from. Although a solitaire engagement ring is the most popular.

  1. Why are solitaire rings the best?

Solitaires are unrivaled when it comes to practical versatility; They pair up stunningly with most wedding bands. Since the engagement ring didn’t set a very defined style, you’re free to play with classic, vintage and bolder band combinations. They all look great!

We’re Here To Help

Finding the perfect engagement ring can come with stress and a lot of questions.  At JamesAllen.com, our non-commissioned diamond and jewelry experts are always available to help and answer any queries you may have. We look forward to assisting you! Contact us here.

Subscribe to our email list for access to secret sales, practical ring-buying tips, and $100 off your first order!

tarryns

Tarryn Snoyman

An experienced content writer with four years' experience, Tarryn enjoys educating and guiding jewelry shoppers, providing them with valuable insights and best practices for making informed purchases.

More Posts

Black Friday Jewelry Gift Guide 2022

Black Friday Jewelry Gift Guide 2022

If you’re looking to check off your holiday gift list and save money, then it’s your time to shine…literally! James Allen’s Black Friday deals are here! Read on to check out the best bling at the best prices. Shop early, save, and, best of all, sleep in on November 25th.

Black Friday jewelry gift guide 2022

James Allen Black Friday Deals

It’s that time of year again, the annual James Allen Black Friday sale! 25% off SITE WIDE! Save on everything! That piece you’ve been eyeing all year? Treat yo self! That engagement ring your love has been sending hint after hint for? Blow their mind with the bling!

Sparkle so bright they won’t remember you forgot their birthday? They’ll wish you would forget it every year! Shop early, save, avoid the chaos, and savor those turkey day leftovers.

Best Selling Black Friday Engagement Rings

A chill in the air and some ice on the finger. The most romantic time of year is upon us once again, the perfect time to pop the question or upgrade your current hardware. Whether you prefer a perfect pavé, a sophisticated solitaire, or a heavenly halo engagement ring, this is the ideal time to grab one of our 2022’s top trends.

Solitaire Engagement Rings

Oh, how we love a solitaire engagement ring! You just can’t go wrong with this timeless, classic, and simply stunning style. Not only are solitaire settings budget-friendly and allow the focus to be solely on your center stone, but they also give an understated elegance beloved by all.

Worried a solitaire is too simple? Pshaw! Go for a thick or thin band, get modern with a knife edge or a six prong shank, or amp up the style with a rope or cable band. The options go on and on!

Choose from timeless yellow gold, romantic rose gold, brilliant white gold, or go for the strength of platinum. Whichever metal or style you choose, a solitaire engagement ring will always be in style. Check out these best-sellers for inspo, and go to JamesAllen.com for more!

Halo Engagement Rings

Stand in the light of a halo when you give your loved one of our halo engagement rings. This style, where your center stone is surrounded by a literal halo of diamonds, gives your already shining ring enhanced elegance and sparkle.

Do you subscribe to the bigger is better theory? Then halo rings are for you! The halo of diamonds around your center stone will make your ring look even bigger than it is. It’s no wonder their popularity continues to grow.

After all, is more shine ever a bad thing? Take a look at some of the halos our customers just love, and check out more here!

Pavé Engagement Rings

Love the look of being surrounded by diamonds but don’t have the budget of being surrounded by diamonds, then look to the pavé! Pavé literally means to cover, as in to pave something. Pavé engagement rings feature bands that are covered in diamonds.

What is great is that the diamonds are tiny, making them affordable and allowing you to satisfy that champagne taste! All these tiny diamonds reflect light, allowing a beautiful sparkle that can be seen from every angle.

A ring that dazzles this bright is sure to get that yes! Need some inspo? These beauties are best sellers for a reason!

Fine Jewelry Black Friday Deals

Figuring out what to get all the people on your list can be a pain in the you know what! Fine jewelry to the rescue! It always makes a great gift! Whatever their style, whomever the recipient, whichever pieces are preferred, jewelry is the gift that never fails.

Gold Jewelry

There’s a reason it’s called The Gold Standard. Gold is always great; whether you prefer yellow, white, or rose, gold is the gift that keeps on going. Get in on the minimalist trend with gold pieces that you’ll never want to take off. Sport a perfect pair of gold hoop earrings, a cute cuff, an initial necklace, and a statement ring. 

Speaking of statement rings, why go for just one when you can stack ‘em? Wear them on the same finger or get multiple for different fingers because when it comes to stackable rings, it’s like holiday guests, the more the merrier!

Wear your gold jewelry together, separately, or mix and match for a clean, elegant look.

Lab Created Diamond Jewelry

Love diamonds but want to save even more? Then our lab created diamond jewelry collection is for you! Lab created diamonds are great because they are 100% real diamonds, cost less than their counterparts found in the earth, and at James Allen, are certified conflict-free.

Lab grown diamonds are also the perfect way to build your fine jewelry basics collection. Go for a timeless tennis necklace, a perfect solitaire ring, a set of cluster earrings, and a station dash bracelet to pull the collection together.

Is your best friend such a Libra? Is your sister the ultimate Gemini? Sounds like they need a piece from our gorgeous constellation collection. No matter their sign, we got the shine to match!

Complete the set with a pair of lab grown diamond hoop earrings, go for a heavenly halo ring, or choose a perfect pendant. No matter what you choose, our lab created diamond pieces are just what every jewelry box needs.

Birthstone Jewelry

Celebrate a birthday this holiday season, no matter when you were born! Rock the wintery gem of December with beautiful topaz pieces and feel hot hot hot while sporting these icy cool blues. Choose the deep red of January’s garnet and feel regal everytime you put it on.

From the deep shades of September’s sapphires to the engaging greens in May’s emeralds, birthstone jewelry looks good every month of the year. Were you born in October but have the soul of an April baby, pair a stunning opal necklace with a diamond bolo bracelet. Throw in a ruby ring for a pop of color to honor all those July babies you know and love.

James Allen’s collection of birthstone jewelry is so gorgeous you’ll wish you had a birthday every month of the year!

Black Friday Wedding Rings For Women

The James Allen Black Friday sale is also a great time to get that dream wedding ring! Whether you’re looking for your perfect wedding ring for the big day, to add a beautiful piece to your wedding ring collection, or simply want to upgrade your current wedding ring, we have the style for you.

Want a classic ring to match your timeless love? Go for one of our simply sophisticated classic wedding rings. Available in yellow, white, rose gold, and even platinum, as well as different widths, and even styles (check out our knife edge for a classic ring with a twist); we’ve got the right ring for you!

Do you need a ring that sparkles as bright as your smile? Our collection of diamond wedding rings will leave you wanting for words.

Whether you want diamonds that go on and on, like our dazzling eternity rings, or maybe you want a pavé wedding ring to match your pavé engagement ring, our seemingly endless collection of women’s wedding rings has the perfect ring waiting for you.

Black Friday Wedding Rings For Men

Your man deserves a ring that will make everyone go wow! We know this is an important purchase, one of the most important pieces of jewelry you’ll ever buy, and you don’t want to buy just any old ring. 

Classic men’s wedding rings are simply timeless. Whether you prefer a slimmer 4mm ring, or want a slightly thicker 6mm band, these enduring rings are available in varying widths, metals, and finishes. From comfort fit to slightly flat or slightly curved, these stylish rings allow you to take a classic look to the next level.

Do you love the classic look but want to give it a twist? Go for a bold, black tantalum ring. Whether you prefer one with a pattern, a satin finish, or one mixed with gold, there are so many choices for men’s wedding rings that you are sure to find your favorite.

Final Thoughts

It’s never a bad thing to be ahead of the game, at least when it comes to holiday shopping! Get that list, check it twice, and finish shopping before everyone else has even started. As they elbow their way through the crowds and set their alarms before the sun, you’ll be fast asleep, dreaming of how you got gifts everyone will love and at a discount. So head on over to JamesAllen.com because sparkle season starts now!

sarahc

Sarah Axelrad

With over 10 years of experience writing and editing on a wide variety of subjects, Sarah is a veteran of the content world. Since joining James Allen, she has focused on all things diamonds and fine jewelry with the goal of educating and empowering consumers.

More Posts

V3 Cover

Hailey Bieber’s Engagement Ring: The Ultimate Guide 

Hailey Bieber’s Engagement Ring

Hailey Baldwin met Justin Bieber when the two were youngsters backstage at one of his concerts. The two became fast friends and dated on and off before Justin proposed to Baldwin in the Bahamas in July of 2018. 

After news traveled fast, Bieber posted a lengthy and heartfelt post, confirming their engagement and his clear devotion to his wife-to-be. 

The next day, Hailey was seen sporting an impressive sparkler around the island, noticeable for its resemblance to another star’s engagement ring- Blake Lively- no surprise as Hailey had once retweeted a post that read, “If my ring isn’t as big as Blake Lively’s, I don’t want to get married.“ Clearly, the Biebs got the hint because the two engagement rings could be sister twins except for some minor unique yet stunning details. 

https://www.tiktok.com/@jamesallenrings/video/7234223538775936302?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7179190862508951042

We’re going to share the following fun facts with you: 

  1. The style of Hailey’s engagement ring 
  2. The diamond shape 
  3. The diamonds carat size 
  4. How much Hailey’s engagement ring cost 
  5. Hailey’s engagement ring lookalikes 

Hailey Bieber’s Engagement Ring Pictures

Hailey Bieber knows how to work both her engagement and wedding rings. In these pictures, we see her and her now-husband posing at their wedding while showing off her blinged-out left hand, with her world-famous engagement ring and her curved pavé wedding ring

Hailey and Bieber's Engagement Ring

What Style Setting is Hailey Bieber’s Engagement Ring?

Hailey Bieber’s engagement ring appears to be a classic 18K yellow gold solitaire band with a hidden diamond halo basket elevating the oval center stone. The ring was a custom-designed piece by Jack Solow of Solow & Co. Inc Diamond Jewelers.

The solitaire setting is by far the most traditional style and speaks to classic elegance. With a solitaire setting, there are no added diamonds along with the band, but the band can be shaped to your taste. Styles like knife edge, comfort fit, etched rope, and cable solitaire are all trendy ways to add your personality to an engagement ring.

Yellow gold is the most common gold used for engagement rings and is considered the most traditional metal. This metal is easier to maintain than white gold, giving you that perfect vintage feel. It’s also more malleable, making it cheaper to resize. 

What Diamond Shape is Hailey’s Engagement Ring?

Hailey Bieber’s engagement ring is set with a glowing oval cut diamond. This diamond cut has been recorded since the 1300s and is usually priced lower than round brilliant cut center stones.

Three different sized oval cut diamonds

Oval cut diamonds are considered to be “fancy-shaped” diamonds, with an elongated design that makes them appear larger than diamonds of the same carat weight. 

This style is perfect for a wearer who prefers a longer-looking diamond and one that will make the fingers appear slimmer. Oval-shaped diamonds pair perfectly with almost every setting and work incredibly well with three stone and vintage styles. 

How Many Carats is Hailey Bieber’s Engagement Ring?

Hailey’s massive oval cut engagement ring is estimated to be between 6-10 carats. The center diamond is colorless. 

How Much Did Hailey Bieber’s Ring Cost? And What’s It Really Worth?! 

Justin Bieber went all out when buying Hailey’s engagement ring. Experts say the ring costs around $500,000. 

Looking at an ideal oval cut diamond with excellent specifications (F Color, VVS1 Clarity) at James Allen, the estimate seems accurate.

Hailey Bieber Engagement Ring Lookalikes

This piece is classic and refined and offers understated elegance and unsurpassed comfort while highlighting the oval-cut center diamond. Designed with smaller carat weight diamonds in mind, it is sophisticated and petite without sacrificing stability. 

18K Yellow Gold 1.5mm Comfort Fit Engagement Ring

Who says affordability and beauty don’t go hand-in-hand? This diamond edge knife solitaire offers the best of both worlds with its classic appeal at a cost-effective price. Unlink Hailey’s ring; there is no diamond basket, and it has more traditional features. 

18K Yellow Gold Presentation Solitaire (Six Prong)

This elegant solitaire engagement ring features a delicate pinched shank with an intricate wire basket that allows you to see the oval-shaped diamond fully. This engagement ring is just as polished as Hailey’s, with the same timeless appeal. 

18K Yellow Gold 2.2mm Wire Basket Solitaire Engagement Ring

We’re Here To Help 

Buying an engagement ring comes with stress, questions, and a lot of second-guessing. At James Allen, we’re here to offer you 100% free advice and will assist you in understanding the best diamond quality for your budget and unique preferences. 

Contact our customer service team and chat with non-commissioned diamond and jewelry experts 24-7 regarding any questions you have about the ring-buying process.

SHOP RELATED PRODUCTS

jessicat

Jessica Thomas

Jessica is a seasoned content writer with four years of experience and a qualified gemologist. She enjoys educating new shoppers on the best practices for buying jewelry.

More Posts - Website

Cover Gabunion

Gabrielle Union’s Engagement Ring: The Ultimate Guide

Gabrielle Union’s Engagement Ring: The Ultimate Guide

Gabrielle Union’s Engagement Ring was revealed to the world in a breathtaking Instagram post on December 22, 2013. The actress and fashion icon received her beautiful ring from Miami Heat shooting guard and 12-time All-Star Dwayne Wade.

To add to the special moment, Dwayne Wade enlisted the help of his two children and his nephew in popping the question! Wade and Union went on to make the family affair official, getting married the next year in an elegant outdoor wedding.

But you’re here for Gabrielle Union’s engagement ring! And you’re in the right place.

You’ll find out:

  1. What style Gabrielle Union’s engagement ring is
  2. What diamond shape is Gabrielle Union’s engagement ring?
  3. How many carats is Gabrielle Union’s engagement ring?
  4. How much did Gabrielle Union’s engagement ring cost & what’s it really worth?
  5. Gabrielle Union’s engagement ring copy

What Style Is Gabrielle Union’s Engagement Ring?

Gabrielle’s engagement ring seems to have a flat solitaire band with a raised, pavé-studded basket. The solitaire band lends her ring a classic feel, while the diamond-studded basket gives the ring a surprise pop of sparkle when viewed from the side.

Gabrielle wearing her diamond engagement ring along with a large diamond necklace.
Solitaire Engagement Ring Embellished With a Classic Pavé Basket Head.

Solitaire engagement rings are the most popular setting among ring shoppers. Why? 2 main reasons:

  1. Solitaire engagement rings don’t distract from your center diamond! All the glitter is in your center stone.
  2. Solitaire settings save your wallet. You can invest in the center diamond of your dreams with all the money you save on the band. 

What Diamond Shape Is Gabrielle Union’s Engagement Ring?

Three cushion cut diamonds shown from different angles.

The stunning stone is an enormous cushion-cut diamond. It’s a colorless, eye-clean diamond. It’s at least an F Color with a clarity of VS1 or higher.

How Many Carats is Gabrielle Union’s Engagement Ring?

Reportedly, her diamond is an incredible 8.5 carats. And man, does it impress!

How Much Did Gabrielle Union’s Engagement Ring Cost & What’s It Really Worth?!

Gabrielle’s diamond comprises nearly the entire value of her engagement ring. Rumor has it that it cost Wade nearly $1 million! And such a gorgeous stone is truly worth every penny.

There aren’t many large-carat diamonds in less-common cuts like cushion, but compared to a similar James Allen round diamond, the $1 million valuation seems fair!

CHECK PRICE

A comparable 8 carat cushion-cut diamond is relatively more affordable. In fact, a cushion-cut diamond usually costs 30-50% less than a round diamond of a similar carat. 

CHECK PRICE

A “Copy” of Gabrielle Union’s Engagement Ring

Using James Allen’s Ring Studio, you can make your own lookalike of Gabrielle Union’s engagement ring. With a solitaire shank, a pavé-studded basket, and 4-pronged closure, this ring is nearly identical to Union’s stunning ring. All you have to do is choose your own diamond to complete this stunner!

Pavé Basket Head Engagement Ring

Solitaire Engagement Ring Embellished With a Classic Pavé Basket Head

CHECK PRICE

Another Gabrielle Union-inspired engagement ring is this four-prong solitaire setting with a pavé-decorated basket. The accent diamonds add extra glitter to your center cushion-cut diamond!

Pavé-Adorned Cathedral Engagement Ring

18K White Gold Pavé Adorned Cathedral Engagement Ring

CHECK PRICE

Gabrielle Union Engagement Ring Pictures 

We love a good photo dump, especially when it features an incredible engagement ring and a beautiful couple!

Gabrielle posing in her veil and holding up her ring finger to display her diamond engagement ring
Gabrielle brushing back her hair while she shows off her sparkling diamond ring.
Gabrielle and Dwayne laughing together. Her engagement ring hand rests on his shoulder displaying the diamond.
Gabrielle and Dwayne posing together on a bed. She rest her hand on his head showing off her diamond engagement ring.
Gabrielle at a fashion show resting her hand on her knee, her engagement ring is on clear display.

We’re Here To Help

Designing your perfect ring isn’t always the easiest task! That’s why you can contact our customer service team and chat with non-commissioned expert gemologists 24-7 regarding any questions you have about the ring-buying process or visit our website at JamesAllen.com